The CMCA Foster Grandparent Program is calling anyone older than 55 who could use a little extra dough and a bonus grandchild.
"We only have three foster grandparents in Fulton, but we used to have nine or 10," program volunteer coordinator Kim Shelmadine said.
The decline in participation is unfortunate, she said, because the program has big benefits for the adult volunteers and youth. Foster grandparents spend a minimum of 15 hours a week working with a child in a local school, day care or head start location. In return, they receive a tax-exempt stipend of $265 a month, 12 hours of paid time off per month, a free meal at the school and transportation reimbursement.
"The foster grandparents tell us it gives them something to do," Shelmadine said. "It gets them up and out of the house. We get a lot of grandparents that say this is what they live for."
She said foster grandparents can work up to 40 hours a week, and some of them do. She even has one foster grandparent who doesn't meet the income eligibility requirements (under $2,010 per month for a one-member household or $2,706.67 for a two-member household) and volunteers for free.
Students receive help with homework - especially reading and math - and a sympathetic listening ear.
"They love their foster grandpas and grannies," Shelmadine added. "Even if we have a grandparent that's out sick, they'll ask where the grandparent is."
Student participants range from toddlers to junior high school, though technically they can stay in the program into high school. After prospective foster grandparents complete their application and pass background checks, teachers help match them to a student who needs them the most.
The ideal foster grandparent has patience and a good sense of humor, Shelmadine said.
"We have one foster grandparent who's just the goofy grandma," she said. "She calls herself that. She'll get the kids opened up."
To learn more, call Shelmadine at 573-443-8706 ext. 1129.